In the ever-unpredictable world of the NFL, the game between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys brought thrilling highs and sobering lows, particularly for the Commanders’ kicker, Austin Seibert. The Washington franchise has announced placing Seibert on injured reserve following a performance that saw him miss two critical extra-point attempts, decisions that played a pivotal role in the team’s 34-26 loss to the Cowboys.
Seibert, who up until this game had successfully converted all 22 of his extra-point attempts this season, faltered when the Commanders needed him most. His first missed extra point followed a spirited 17-yard touchdown run by Jayden Daniels in the third quarter. The second mishap came on the heels of an electrifying 86-yard touchdown pass from Daniels to Terry McLaurin, which could have positioned Washington more favorably against their division rivals.
The two missed attempts left Washington trailing 27-26, underscoring the unforgiving nature of the sport where each point, each play, can sway the momentum of a game. Despite any external factors, Seibert took ownership of the situation. “I just want to play better for my teammates, you know; definitely don’t want to do that,” Seibert confessed, referring to his missed kicks. “Just wasn’t striking well, but it means a lot to me to be here with these guys, so I just want to put my best foot... moving forward.”
His candid reflections demonstrated the pressure-filled role that NFL kickers routinely navigate. Seibert's acknowledgment that “It didn’t make a difference at all. It’s on me,” in regard to a low snap during his final attempt, further highlights his accountability and professional integrity.
Beyond the missed kicks, Seibert’s decision to play against Dallas, despite concerns about his right hip, was scrutinized. He explained, “I felt fine. That’s why I made the decision to play, and here we are.” However, his physical wellbeing moving forward raises questions now that he is placed on injured reserve—a status that necessitates missing at least four games.
While the Commanders grapple with this setback, the Cowboys capitalized on every opportunity they were given, showcasing a resilient and record-setting performance. Dallas overcame the 10.5-point spread against them, achieving victory in part due to an unprecedented feat—becoming the first team in NFL history to secure two kickoff return touchdowns in the fourth quarter of a single game. This element of surprise added to their arsenal, ensuring their place in the history books.
CeeDee Lamb, a key figure in the Cowboys' success, did not miss the chance to acknowledge the pivotal yet unexpected contributions from the Commanders’ side. "Shoutout (Commanders kicker Austin Seibert). He went to OU with me. He gave us one," Lamb noted, highlighting the intertwined paths players share even when standing on opposite sidelines.
The Commanders are now tasked with finding a suitable replacement for Seibert, a move that carries significant weight as they aim to recover and rediscover their footing in a competitive league. Coaches and players alike must rally and shift their focus to upcoming challenges, understanding that in the world of professional football, adaptation and resilience are as crucial as skill and precision.
As the Commanders regroup, they must continue to strive to reclaim momentum and build upon the foundation of talent and determination that has propelled them thus far in the season. The story of Austin Seibert, amid this setback, serves as a reminder of the relentless passion and personal accountability that define the heart of sportsmanship.